Awesome aromatics

Mahi Ward Farm Marlborough Pinot Gris 2009 $29. Photo / Babiche Martens

Here are three of the best aromatics of their kind to bear in mind when doing your holiday shopping.

VERY GOOD VIOGNIER

Millton Riverpoint Vineyard Gisborne Viognier 2009 $28-$29
New Zealand organic and biodynamic pioneer Millton has consistently produced some of the country's best viognier. This latest example from its Riverpoint vineyard is no exception with its seductively slippery textured palate of lifted and pure apricot fruit, threaded with notes of exotic spice, mineral and fresh citrus zest. (From Wine Vault, Caro's, First Glass, Lovrich Wines, Bacchus, Peter Maude, Hamilton Wine Company, Scenic Cellars.)

SINGULAR GRIS

Mahi Ward Farm Marlborough Pinot Gris 2009 $29
Also made from organically grown grapes is this stand-out single vineyard pinot gris from the south of Marlborough. Richly textured but fresh, this dry, food-friendly example has a lovely savoury, leesy character from the time it has spent in a barrel, joined by sweet toasty spice, mineral and hints of tangerine. (From Liquor King, Fine Wine Delivery Company, La Vino.)

OLD SPICE

Pegasus Bay Waipara Gewurztraminer 2009 $31.95
The second vintage of this under-rated variety from Waipara's Pegasus Bay, which has made a beautifully balanced example from the oldest gewurztraminer vineyard in the region that dates back to the 70s. A heady potpourri of honeysuckle, rose florals and Moroccan spices infuse its rich and oily textured palate that finishes on a fresh note of tonic water and grapefruit zest. Initially just available direct from the winery, as of the equally impressive 2010 vintage, it will also be found in good wine shops. (From pegasusbay.com.)